At the 112th Session of the International Labour Conference in Geneva, Switzerland, the Honourable Minister of Labour and Employment, Rt. Hon. Barr. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, PhD, delivered a compelling statement in response to the Director-General of the ILO’s report on “Towards a Renewed Social Contract.”
Onyejeocha extended warm greetings from Nigeria and congratulated the conference organizers on their theme, which emphasizes the interdependence between individuals and societies for social cohesion, economic resilience, and political stability.
She highlighted that this theme aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope Agenda,” which aims to transform Nigeria into a prime global investment destination through the “4-D Diplomacy Strategy.” This strategy focuses on promoting democracy, driving economic development, harnessing Nigeria’s demographic potential, and engaging with the diaspora community. The agenda’s eight priority areas aim to achieve economic prosperity through food security, poverty eradication, job creation, access to capital, inclusiveness, improved security, rule of law, and fighting corruption.
Onyejeocha emphasized Nigeria’s commitment to social dialogue and tripartite cooperation to advance social justice and align with the government’s labor sector agenda. She highlighted significant achievements, including the implementation of the Decent Work Country Programme III, ratification of key ILO conventions, revival of the National Labour Advisory Council, and progress in reviewing labor laws. Additionally, the establishment of job centers, upgrading of skill acquisition centers, creation of migration resource centers, reduction of child labor, and direct loans to farmers were noted.
The minister also mentioned ongoing negotiations to review the National Minimum Wage, promoting decent work for all workers. Recognizing skill acquisition as crucial for youth empowerment and job creation, the government launched the Labour Employment and Empowerment Programme (LEEP), aiming to train 2.5 million people annually over the next four years. This initiative is expected to enhance job creation, reduce unemployment, and bolster Nigeria’s economic growth.
Concluding her address, Onyejeocha urged continued global cooperation to address the challenges of technology in the workplace and to build a more productive, resilient, and inclusive society for future generations.
